Issued by the Department of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities
Attention: Journalists and News Editors
Sunday: 03 May 2026
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DWYPD URGES SAFEGUARDING OF FEMALE JOURNALISTS AS SOUTH AFRICA
OBSERVES PRESS FREEDOM DAY
Pretoria: In observance of the global commemoration of World Press Freedom Day, the
Department of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities (DWYPD) emphasises the
necessity for immediate and enhanced measures to protect female journalists, who remain
exposed to escalated risks while performing their duties.
This year’s observance occurs amidst escalating international concerns regarding the
security of women in media. Female journalists are disproportionately subjected to
harassment, intimidation, online abuse, and gender-based violence—threats that not only
jeopardise their safety but also potentially undermine the principles of media freedom and
democratic governance.
DWYPD underscores that a media environment that is free, independent, and secure is
essential for the promotion of human rights, transparency, and accountability. Nevertheless,
for numerous women in journalism, exercising these freedoms entails personal sacrifices.
The Department expresses concern that gender-based violence within the media sector
reflects broader societal issues, including those addressed in South Africa’s initiatives
against Gender-Based Violence and Femicide.
“Female journalists are not merely reporters; they are custodians of truth and democracy.
Their protection remains an uncompromisable priority,” stated Minister Chikunga. “It is
imperative that their voices are preserved from suppression caused by fear, violence, or
discrimination, whether in newsrooms, on the field, or online.”
Department of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities Urges:
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• Media outlets that they should bolster workplace safety regulations, including safeguards
against harassment and digital abuse.
• Social media platforms should implement decisive measures against online harassment
and gender-based hate speech.
• Society at large should endorse and honour the vital role of women in the media sector.
Furthermore, the Department reiterates the importance of adopting frameworks in
accordance with international standards such as those advocated by UNESCO, which
promote journalists’ safety and combat impunity.
As South Africa continues to uphold its constitutional democracy, DWYPD calls upon all
stakeholders to collaborate effectively to ensure that female journalists can operate freely
and securely.
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Media Enquiries Contact: Cassius Selala, Head of Communication, Department of
Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities on 060 534 0672.
Issued by: Department of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities.